3 Ways to help a drug addict overcome addiction

If a loved one’s drug use is making you worried, angry or guilty, it’s time to seek help for the person and yourself.

You could just be starting to become anxious or you may be noticing your loved one slipping back into old habits after having been clean for some time. In any case, here are the things you can do.

Know about drug addiction and treatment

If you are wondering how to help a drug addict, the first step is to become well informed. The more you know and understand the situation and what you can do to help, the better it is for you and your loved one.

So, arm yourself with know how about what addiction really is and what are the various treatment options for your loved one and their specific addiction.

For example, knowing that signs of addiction include going through withdrawal between uses, compulsion to use even despite negative consequences, sleep issues, and constricted or dilated pupils. Social withdrawal, depression, anxiety, irritability or aggression may also be signs.

Fortunately, treatment is available and inpatient treatment is the best way to recover and cultivate a drug-free life.

It is important to know that professional support is vital to overcome addiction and recover. It begins with medical detox to avoid the dangerous or even fatal consequences of withdrawal. After that, the person can move to inpatient or intensive outpatient treatment.

How to talk to a loved one about their addiction problem

Bringing up the subject of someone’s drug use is not easy. It would be easy if they come to you saying they need help, but usually you would have to open the conversation. This may seem daunting but this conversation can help them get the professional help they truly need.

Try to speak to them when you’re both calm and have time. Talk about yourself and your feelings, such as "I am concerned about…" or "I’m afraid that…" rather than accusing them as in, "You are using too much or too often." Anything of the second type may make them feel defensive.

You may offer to accompany them to a professional counsellor for support and guidance. Research in advance and let them pick the rehab they like.

Keep your cool

You may be feeling angry, worried and even betrayed by a loved one struggling with drug addiction. Never feel you have to put up with their behavior or make excuses for it.

But it is important to stay calm and rational yourself if you wish to lead them to a positive outcome.

While the drug addiction may lead your loved one to selfish, destructive and terrible behavior, don’t equate them to those behaviors. While you don’t have to accept the associated behavior, you can have empathy with the difficulties they may be having and help them find treatment and relief.

If you are looking for a trusted alcohol treatment and drug rehab center, check out one of the leading drug and alcohol addiction treatment rehabs in San Diego, call Pacific Bay Recovery at 858-263-9700 right away and begin the path towards healing and taking charge of your life again.

Pacific Bay Recovery offers inpatient and intensive outpatient treatment in San Diego for drug and alcohol rehabilitation and long-term success.